Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip

This past year has been one of great celebration for many. The enthusiasm which greeted the Diamond Jubilee was, of course, especially memorable for me and my family. It was humbling that so many chose to mark the anniversary of a duty which passed to me sixty years ago. People of all ages took the trouble to take part in various ways and in many nations. But perhaps most striking of all was to witness the strength of fellowship and friendship among those who had gathered together on these occasions.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II today celebrates her 86th birthday today. The Queen will celebrate her birthday privately at Windsor Castle with members of her family.

Officially, the birthday of The Queen was marked across the United Kingdom by the British Armed Forces carrying out gun salutes. Dozens of cannons fired into the air at the Tower of London, Hyde Park, Windsor Castle, York's Museum Gardens, Portsmouth Harbour, Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle.

Her Most Excellent Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in her role as Sovereign of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, accompanied by His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh attended a Service of the Order at St. Paul's Cathedral in London.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and Her Royal Highnesses The Duchess of Cornwall and The Duchess of Cambridge visited Fortnum and Mason Store. A plaque to commemorate the regeneration of the local Piccadilly area was then unveiled by Her Majesty The Queen.